This study investigated the mental cognitions of cricket bowlers
across different practice scenarios, training and games, as well as
using a batsman within an ecological representative design. The
investigation was to determine if cognitions change caused by the
presence of a batsman or the game situation, then training is not
representative of the performance environment. This study used
six skilled cricket bowlers, all male, who played against one cricket
batsman. Participants were experienced playing in English
southern league cricket. The method of ‘Think Aloud’ (TA) was
used allowing for on the spot cognitions straight after performing.
Anxiety was also measured at the beginning of both practices
using the mental readiness form-Likert (MFR-L). Finding saw no
significant effects to changes in cognitions across the practices,
nor any significant effects in anxiety ratings. Verbal reports offer
insight into individual routine monitoring, planning, prediction and
evaluating cognitions straight after performance. Future
directions are discussed.